Your home’s exterior door is not just an entry point. It’s also a statement piece that enhances your home’s appearance and security. If you’re worried that your front door won’t survive another Okanagan winter (or just know it’s time for an upgrade), consider these factors to ensure your new modern exterior door meet both your aesthetic and functional needs.
1. Material Matters
A door’s material plays a vital role in its durability, insulation, and overall appearance. Here are some common materials to consider:
- Wood: Wooden doors offer timeless beauty and natural insulation, but often require regular maintenance — especially with the extreme temperature changes of the Okanagan.
- Fibreglass: Fibreglass doors mimic the look of wood but are highly durable and require minimal maintenance. They also provide excellent insulation against Summerland’s hot summers and chilly winters.
- Steel: Steel doors are sturdy and offer enhanced security. They are less prone to warping or rotting, making them suitable for the Okanagan’s variable climate. However, they may require additional insulation for better energy efficiency.
2. Style and Design
Modern exterior doors come in a wide range of styles and designs, allowing you to choose one that complements your home’s architecture and your personal taste. Consider the following design elements:
- Panel Configuration: Decide whether you prefer a door with a single panel, multiple panels, or decorative glass inserts.
- Finish: Choose a finish that complements your home’s exterior colour scheme. Options include stained wood, painted surfaces, and more.
- Hardware: Select hardware that matches the overall aesthetic of the door, such as handles, locks, and hinges. Hardware can be selected for enhanced security, improved functionality, and can also help make your door stand out.
3. Energy Efficiency
Keep the heat of summer and chill of winter outside — and reduce your utility bills — by choosing an energy efficient exterior door with modern features.
- Weatherstripping: Effective weatherstripping helps prevent drafts and keeps your home comfortable year-round. Weatherstripping should be properly installed and maintained to provide full energy efficiency.
- Energy-efficient glass: Solid doors are generally more energy efficient than exterior doors with glass inserts, but homeowners still have options. If your door has glass inserts, opt for double or triple-pane glass for better insulation.
- Thermal break: Some doors have a thermal break, which reduces heat transfer between the exterior and interior. A thermal break is created when a material of low thermal conductivity is placed between the door’s conductive materials to stop energy transfer, and are essential for metal doors in Summerland’s variable climate.
4. Security
Your entryway door protects you from more than just the elements — it also keeps you safe from unwanted visitors. When choosing a new entry door, which security features would you like to include?
- Deadbolt locks: High-quality deadbolt locks enhance security. Consider a smart lock system for added convenience and control.
- Reinforced frames: Door frames should be properly installed and can be reinforced to deter forced entry attempts.
- Peephole: Install a peephole or a security camera near the door to see who is outside without opening it.
5. Local Building Codes
Depending on the scope of your renovation or front door replacement, you may need to consult with Summerland building codes. Local experts Ecoline Windows are familiar with every municipality’s requirements in the Okanagan, and can help ensure your new door meets requirements for door size, type, and fire ratings.
6. Installation
Proper installation is crucial to ensure your new exterior door functions correctly and provides the expected insulation and security. Hire a professional installer familiar with the Okanagan’s climate and building codes, like Ecoline Windows. Consult online reviews to get a sense of the company’s reputation with local customers.
7. Maintenance
Finally, consider the maintenance requirements of your chosen modern exterior door, as each material and type has different needs. Regularly inspect and maintain weatherstripping and hardware to ensure your door continues to perform optimally.
For all of your door and window replacement needs, consult with Ecoline Windows. From their showroom and warehouse in Kelowna, Ecoline Windows works directly with homeowners in Summerland, Lake Country, Vernon, Penticton and the rest of the Okanagan. Visit the Kelowna showroom at